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Batanga

Atlanta-transplant Brian Fasthoff, his brother Hank and their wives Ianne and Maya have retained the historic atmosphere of an 1880s saloon near Market Square (with exposed brick walls and railroad tie) while creating a little history of their own by featuring Latin American tapas with a modern twist. The menu at Batanga offers "something for everyone" with options that can please vegetarians, those on a gluten-free diet and committed meat eaters. The discounts for ordering six, eight or 10 dishes make it a perfect choice for a group looking to fuel up before attacking the new Main Street bars.

The massive patio — the largest in downtown Houston — is a great gathering spot, particularly on Sundays, when all bottles of wine are half price (except champagne) and a three-course Sunday Supper of whole roasted suckling pig, local farm salad and vegetable, and dessert is available after 4 p.m. Live music on the weekends adds to the high-energy vibe.